Government Affairs Manager/Head: Global MNC Consumer Brand

Overview

We are seeking a Government Affairs Manager/Head to lead the organisation's public policy, regulatory and government engagement agenda across the GCC. This role will focus on influencing policy outcomes, strengthening the company's reputation with ministries, and improving market access through structured, data driven advocacy.

Client details

A dynamic, fast growing consumer focused organisation with a strong global and regional footprint across the Middle East. Operating through a complex multi market model, the company places high importance on regulatory excellence, responsible industry engagement, and effective government partnerships. The environment is fast paced, collaborative, and built on empowerment, ownership, and cross functional agility.

Description

Lead government affairs and regulatory strategy across the UAE, KSA, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman

• Build and maintain relationships with key ministries including Finance, Commerce, Industry, Health, and Food Safety authorities
• Drive fiscal and excise tax negotiations supported by robust economic, legal, and market analysis
• Develop structured government engagement plans and briefing materials for leadership
• Monitor regulatory developments and advise internal teams on business impact and response planning
• Manage public policy consultancies with clear KPIs and performance oversight
• Collaborate closely with commercial teams and distributors to resolve market access issues

Profile

• Native level Arabic with strong English communication skills
• Proven GCC government affairs experience with demonstrated policy influence
• Direct engagement with ministries in areas such as fiscal policy, commerce, health, or regulatory bodies
• Strong analytical ability and comfort working with economic, legal, and regulatory data
• Experience operating in complex, matrixed, fast paced environments
• High resilience, follow through, and ability to navigate sensitive government relationships

Job Offer

• Opportunity to lead the full government affairs agenda across multiple GCC markets for an instantly recognisable, global leader in their field.
• High impact role influencing policy and regulatory outcomes in a dynamic, competitive sector
• Collaborative environment with significant cross functional exposure
• Ability to shape long term strategy and directly contribute to market access and commercial success

Skills

Skills

• government affairs